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When stress starts interfering with your life physically and emotionally, take action with these quick tips.

1. Road trip. Put a pretty postcard of a place you'd like to visit or a souvenir from your last vacation on the sun visor of your car. While you're stuck in traffic, look at the image and imagine your cares melting away.

2. Take five. Zone out of stressful situations at work by taking a break for a few minutes of quiet time or prayer.

3. Make a note. Keep a pen and paper by your bedside to jot down whatever worries are keeping you awake. If you have the issue in writing, you're assured you won't forget it so you can relax and fall asleep.

4. Check it off. Create a "procrastination list" of four things you've been meaning to do. Pick things that are hanging over your head and causing stress. Over the next month, eliminate one each week.